Encyclopedia entry
Cold chain for GLP-1 medications
Oliver Mackman · Editorial director · Best Business Loans Ltd (16833937)
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Licensed GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Saxenda) require refrigerated storage at 2 to 8°C from manufacturer to patient. UK pharmacies dispensing GLP-1 must maintain validated cold-chain logistics; this is one of the operational requirements for a GPhC-registered pharmacy supplying these medications.
Where cold chain breaks matter
- · Manufacturer warehouse to wholesaler: validated refrigerated transport.
- · Wholesaler to pharmacy: validated refrigerated transport.
- · Pharmacy storage: temperature-monitored refrigeration with documented out-of-fridge events.
- · Pharmacy to patient: insulated packaging with ice packs and a temperature indicator, typically 24-hour next-day delivery.
- · Patient receipt: into the fridge promptly; manufacturer-specified out-of-fridge windows vary by medication.
Out-of-fridge windows (manufacturer-specified)
- · Mounjaro (tirzepatide): up to 21 days at room temperature (below 30°C) once removed from the fridge.
- · Wegovy (semaglutide): up to 28 days at room temperature (below 30°C) once removed from the fridge.
- · Saxenda (liraglutide): up to 30 days at room temperature (below 30°C) once removed from the fridge.
Beyond these manufacturer windows, the medication should not be used. Refrigerator failures and household power cuts are common reasons patients need to discuss replacement supply with their pharmacy or clinic.
Cold-chain failures and what to do
If the package arrives warm, the ice packs are fully melted with no remaining cold, or the temperature indicator shows a breach, contact the supplying pharmacy before using the medication. A reputable UK pharmacy will replace the supply at no cost. Documentation of the issue (photo of the package and indicator on arrival) supports the claim.
Related: pen vs vial · UK pharmacies.